BMW's replacement for the outgoing 1 Series Convertible, the 2 Series Convertible, rounds out the sporting credentials of its spirited predecessor with sleeker styling, a more upscale cabin and numerous new technology features. It won't disappoint those seeking a small luxury two-door with engaging driving dynamics.

Worried about getting a sunburn? You can also get the 2 Series as a coupe.

Recent ChangesBMW has re-structured the list of standard and optional features for the latest model year. The 2 Series Convertible remains fundamentally unchanged.

OverviewThe 2 Series Convertible is almost identical to the 2 Series coupe from the rocker panels up to the belt line. Above that, the 2 gains a multi-layer cloth soft top that can be opened or closed at the push of a button in just 20 seconds, even while driving at speeds of up to 30 mph. The top comes standard in black, but buyers can order it in gray or in brown at an extra cost.

Life AboardInside, the 2 Series borrows much of clean design and comfortable appointments with the iconic 3 Series sport sedan; the two also share numerous drivetrain and platform components. A duo of simple, legible gauges greet the driver from behind a sporty three-spoke steering wheel, while a choice of brushed aluminum, wood or silver matte trims adorn the dashboard and door panels. Available Sport and M Sport lines - more on those later - let buyers personalize the interior with unique trim, upholstery and design elements.

Supportive standard seats or optional sports thrones provide a comfortable experience for those sitting up front, though limited leg- and headroom means that the rear seats are an occasional-use only affair.

Cargo capacity checks in at 9.8 cubic feet with the top down and 11.8 with the top up.

All 2 Series models are fitted as standard with BMW's knob-based iDrive infotainment system, which has evolved over the years from a bewildering complex unit to surprisingly simple and user-friendly system. It displays stereo and vehicle information on a tablet-style 6.5-inch screen mounted atop the dashboard; navigation-equipped coupes get a larger 8.8-inch display along with a touch pad mounted on the iDrive knob that lets users write out phone numbers, contact names and navigation destinations - and also zoom in or zoom out the map - with a finger.

Other notable technologies include extra-cost options such as automatic high beam headlights and an automatic parallel parking system that steers the 2 Series into a spot while the driver controls the gearshift, accelerator and brake.

PerformanceBMW breaks the 2 Series Convertible line-up down into two models named 230i and M240i, respectively.

The 230i hits 60 mph from a stop in 5.6 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph.

Next up is the M240i. Likely the last of a breed, it receives a turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six that delivers 335 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 369 pound-feet of torque between 1,520 and 4,500 rpm.

The six-cylinder is offered with either a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive, or an eight-speed automatic and BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system. It posts a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.4 seconds in its fastest configuration.

Buyers can also choose from a list of several option packages, including the Driving Assistance package and the Premium Package. Many of the M240i's standard features are bundled into option packages for the 230i, too.

Occupant SafetyAll 2 Series models are fitted as standard with dual front, front side, and front knee airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems.

Key CompetitorsAs a compact luxury sport convertible, the 2 Series doesn't have any true rivals. The Audi TT Roadster is similarly coddling but larger, less agile and more expensive. On the lower end of the price spectrum, the Ford Mustang Convertible is quicker but less luxurious and not as refined.